Edmonton's Thanksgiving Feast: Where to Find Dine-In and Turkey-To-Go Dinners This Year

Thanksgiving in Edmonton is more than just a holiday; it's a feeling, a crispness in the air along the river valley, and the warm glow of homes preparing to welcome family and friends.

 

But let's be honest, the pressure of cooking the perfect turkey can be a monumental task.

 

This year, a growing number of Edmontonians are choosing to hang up their aprons and let the city's finest culinary talents handle the feast.

 

From luxurious hotel ballrooms to cozy neighbourhood eateries, the options for a stress-free Thanksgiving are more plentiful than ever.

 

The choice between dining out and a gourmet takeout experience is reshaping holiday traditions across the capital region.

 

Leading the charge are some of the city's most beloved institutions, each offering their unique spin on the classic Thanksgiving dinner.

 

Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, the castle-like icon overlooking the North Saskatchewan River, is once again offering its legendary Thanksgiving experience.

 Guests can book a table in The Harvest Room for an elegant three-course plated dinner running from October 11th to 13th, a truly upscale way to mark the occasion.

 

For those who prefer to celebrate in the comfort of their own home without the culinary chaos, the hotel's 'Thanksgiving Meals To-Go' are a game-changer.

 

You can choose between a whole roasted turkey or a triple-A prime rib dinner, complete with all the gourmet trimmings like butternut squash soup, sourdough stuffing, and maple-glazed vegetables.

 

Meanwhile, The Westin Edmonton is focusing on perfecting the art of the takeaway feast with its popular 'Turkey To Go' service.

 

This isn't just dinner in a box; it's a chef-curated experience.

 The packages, designed for groups of four to ten, include a magnificent whole-roasted turkey, apple brioche stuffing, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and even a pumpkin-spiced tiramisu for dessert.

 

Pick-up is available from October 11th through the 13th, making it a flexible option for any family's schedule.

 

Another local favourite, The Sawmill Restaurant, is covering all bases with both dine-in and takeout options across its Edmonton locations.

 

Their individual Thanksgiving takeout meal is an incredible value, featuring roast turkey, classic stuffing, garlic mashed potatoes, and scratch cranberry sauce.

 

For those wanting the restaurant atmosphere, The Sawmill is hosting a 'Thanksgiving Weekend Turkey Dinner' buffet from October 11th to 13th.

 

This allows families to enjoy the festive spirit without a single dirty dish to worry about.

 

Beyond these well-known names, other Edmonton establishments are stepping up with compelling Thanksgiving offerings.

 

Fantasyland Hotel at West Edmonton Mall provides three distinct ways to celebrate: a grand Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet, a four-course dinner at L2 Grill, and a 'Feast-To-Go' option for up to 15 people.

 

Highlands Golf Club is also a key player, offering brunch and dinner buffets on Sunday, October 12th, as well as a plated dinner and a comprehensive 'Turkey Take Out' package that serves four to five guests.

 

The trend of gourmet Thanksgiving takeout in Edmonton speaks to a desire for quality time over kitchen stress.

 

It's a recognition that the holiday's true meaning is in the gathering, not the labour.

 

But Thanksgiving in our community is also about giving back and ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.

 

Organizations like Hope Mission are hosting their annual Thanksgiving banquets across multiple locations, expecting to serve hundreds of traditional holiday meals to those in need.

 

Similarly, Boyle Street Community Services will be serving a full Thanksgiving meal, providing a safe and inclusive space for vulnerable Edmontonians.

 

Even local businesses are part of this heartwarming effort, with traditions like the free community meal at Millbourne Laundromat continuing to support the community.

 

This spirit of generosity is the true essence of Thanksgiving in Edmonton.

 

As you plan your celebration, remember to book your reservations or pre-order your takeout meals early.

 

These offerings are incredibly popular and often sell out well in advance.

 

Whether you're seated in a grand hotel, gathered around your own dining table with a gourmet meal, or volunteering to serve others, the spirit of gratitude is alive and well in our city.

 

This year, give yourself the gift of time and connection, and let someone else handle the cooking.

 

Happy Thanksgiving, Edmonton.

 

 

 

Our reader's top Questions

 

What are the best options for Thanksgiving turkey-to-go in Edmonton?

 

Many top Edmonton restaurants and hotels offer turkey-to-go packages. Highly-rated options include The Westin Edmonton, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, The Sawmill, Fantasyland Hotel's L2 Grill, and Highlands Golf Club, each providing a complete feast with turkey and all the trimmings.

 

Are there restaurants open for Thanksgiving dinner in Edmonton?

 

Yes, several Edmonton restaurants are open for dine-in Thanksgiving dinner. Venues like The Sawmill and the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald's Harvest Room offer special Thanksgiving menus and buffets over the holiday weekend, providing a festive atmosphere without the cooking.

 

Where can I find free community Thanksgiving meals in Edmonton?

 

For those in need, several community organizations provide free Thanksgiving meals. Hope Mission hosts large annual banquets, and Boyle Street Community Services offers a welcoming dinner. Check with local charities and community leagues for more information on how to attend or support these important events.